The Rock Family

An exploration of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks using Internet, note-taking, and concept mapping skills.

Closure:

Bring in a collection of rocks representing each of the three types. Arrange them in stations around the room. Ask students to rotate through the stations and identify the type of rock found at each one. After the activity, gather as a class and discuss:

Which of the rocks types are most similar? Why?

Which are least similar? Why?

Use your interactive whiteboard or projector to create a 3 circle online Venn Diagram comparing the three types of rocks.

What are the most important characteristics to keep in mind when trying to identify rocks types?